I don't know but the new KTM's are pretty race ready if you ask me, adjustable rear axle length, upper control arms with replacable joints that offer complete camber adjustability, 4 piston magura disc brakes, snorkle type air box, first manufacturer to offer a safety kill switch, 11 inches of wheel travel only to mention a few of the details, all on a stock quad. And did I mention the engines "Holy S#@t" the power definately race ready. Doug Eichner on the KTM powered outlaw was smoking all these bored, stroked and super modded 450's when all he has is air filter and after market exhaust. Can you explain that? Must be a wicked engine! I have the same KTM 525 powered outlaw and is just awesome stock even, can't wait till I get a couple aftermarket things( JD jet kit, exhaust, Air filter) I guess thats about all I'll ever need.

 

KTM is much more into XC racing than they are MX. Go to an AMA National Hare & Hound desert race and half the field is going to be on KTMs. Go to an AMA National outdoor motocross race and you might see two or three KTMs. I have read several places (including KTMs web site) that the KTM quads are specifically marketed for XC racing.

DV

 

I have never read that they are for specific races only. Of course every quad is going to be built better for certain things but thats not to say it going to suck in certain aspects of other races. Like the LTR450 for example, it's not like you can't take it trail riding, but yeah certain quads will smoke it on certain terrain, but on the other hand it will smoke others on other terrain.

 

In keeping with KTM's "Ready to Race" slogan, KTM has already won a championship with their 450 XC ATV.

KTM and Tim Farr win championship

 

The up front cost is higher, but you really get a whole lot more for the price difference compared to the other 450s. The fully adjustable a-arms and Ohlins suspension alone would cost at least $1500 to add to another 450. Then you've got the anti vibe steering stem, hydralic clutch, adjustable axle, high capacity gas tank, braided lines, high flow airbox, high flow exhaust, dampener mount, maxxis tires, douglas rims, really soft seat, REVERSE gear, TONS of power, and it's lighter than the Yamaha. 351lbs with fluids minus gas. I'll take one for my next quad. The question is will this KTM be enough to get the other companies to step it up. I'm not saying they're lacking, but you are getting a lot of quad for the price with the KTM.

 

I bought this Quad (KTM 525 XC) for $9000.00 a couple of weeks ago and it is the best production quad built. I have owned stock & mortified quads both in the past and present and the KTM 525 XC rocks! It has been the best money that I have spent next to my Harley!!!!! Just waiting on after market parts and still dialing it in. I would put this bike up against any other stock bike out there (ATV Production Bike) and it will beat them hands down.....even a slightly modified ATV. Trust me my buddies have some of the fastest wacked out YFZ 450's and they are impressed and can not believe the power. Kudos to KTM they have built a monster!

Cheers Bigartt

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: Bigartt

I bought this Quad (KTM 525 XC) for $9000.00 a couple of weeks ago and it is the best production quad built. I have owned stock & mortified quads both in the past and present and the KTM 525 XC rocks! It has been the best money that I have spent next to my Harley!!!!! Just waiting on after market parts and still dialing it in. I would put this bike up against any other stock bike out there (ATV Production Bike) and it will beat them hands down.....even a slightly modified ATV. Trust me my buddies have some of the fastest wacked out YFZ 450's and they are impressed and can not believe the power. Kudos to KTM they have built a monster!



Cheers Bigartt</end quote></div>

Cool... really glad to see that at least somebody has one.

You should really put up some pictures for the rest of us when you get a chance.
The KTM site just really isn't doing it a lot of justice in that department.

 

I got to check one out in person last saturday and I have to admit it looks a lot better in person than in the pictures. It looked like a solid quad. I wouldn't turn one down if it was offered to me but I wouldn't pay 9+ grand for it. All in all it was pretty sweet and I would definatly take the 525 over the 450.

 

People are iterested in the KTM handling and suspension, we know about its power since its engine is already running around in the Outlaws.

 

GOT ONE